Stay in the UK or head a little further for a well-deserved escape to one of these capital cities...
Bern, Switzerland
COST FROM £260
Nicknamed “the capital of leisure”, the UNESCO World Heritage Site has a surprising small-town feel. Surrounded by forests and the Alps beyond, it’s brimming with historic monuments, buildings, and museums – all nestled in the horseshoe bend of the River Aare. Wander the cobbled streets of the old town and discover its narrow alleys, clock tower with hourly mechanical show and one of the longest sheltered shopping promenades in Europe. There are also over 100 fountains to spot, many more than 500 years old. Stay at the Novotel, Bern for two nights in March, from £260pp including return flights with Britishairways.com.
London, England
COST FROM £58
Walking tours are a great way to get the most from your trip to one of Europe’s most visited cities. These cover all locations, but the city of Westminster – with the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey – are popular. Many museums are free to enter, including the Natural History Museum – with its famous Dinosaur Gallery – and the Science Museum next door. Head to the South Bank to ride the London Eye, before a visit to the London Aquarium or the London Dungeon. You can’t visit the UK capital without seeing Buckingham Palace, which opens its state rooms from July to October. Stay at the Luna and Simone Hotel from £116 per night B&B, with Booking.com.
Belfast, Northern Island
COST FROM £239
It’s well documented that the Titanic was built in the city’s docks, and for those with an interest in the legendary liner, the Titanic Belfast exhibition is the place to be. Here you can explore the docks, walk the decks, try out an interactive visit to the depths of the Atlantic and learn about the ship’s history. The city’s small so you can explore on foot, but take a Black Cab Tour to check out the history of the wall murals Belfast is famous for. Hop on board an open top bus and explore City Hall, Ulster Museum or Botanic Gardens. If shopping’s your thing, the city is home to many eclectic shops and boutiques selling jewellery, arts, and crafts, as well as Northern Ireland’s largest and oldest indoor food market, St George’s. Stay at The Hilton, Belfast for two nights in March, from £239pp B&B and flights with Lastminute.com.
Cardiff, Wales
COST FROM £58
Known for sport, culture and beautiful countryside, Cardiff is a great escape. Cardiff Castle is one of the top attractions in Wales, with over 2,000 years of history dating from Roman times. Head to Cardiff Bay, where you’ll find the Millennium Centre. Explore the Norwegian Church Arts Centre and the Techniquest Science Discovery centre is a must. If you love sports, Cardiff International White Water offers an Olympic raft and canoe course, and the surrounding landscape is ideal for hikers and cyclists. Stay at The Hilton Cardiff from £116 per room, per night including bed and breakfast, book online at Cardiff.hilton.com.
Rome, Italy
COST FROM £259
For a weekend getaway for two, you can’t beat a visit to the beautiful city of Rome. Immersed in history and world class art at every step, get a feel for the Roman empire by exploring its ancient streets and impressive baroque squares. Walk in the footsteps of the Colosseum’s gladiators, climb the steps of Capitoline Hill, and admire the views from the top of the Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II. Stroll along the Via della Conciliazione to Vatican City and visit the Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica. Shop like a local in Campo de’ Fiori and stop to savour a gelato on the Spanish Steps. Stay at the Romanico Palace Hotel & Spa for two nights in March, including flight, from £259pp, with Lastminute.com
Words: Lucy Brown